Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, one of the city’s most distinguished luxury hotels, has recently undergone a $70 million refurbishment, breathing new life into its storied past while embracing modern sophistication. As Australia’s first international 5-star hotel, originally developed by Qantas in the 1960s, this historic landmark seamlessly blends French-inspired luxury with contemporary innovation, making it a premier choice for discerning travellers.

Location & Arrival

Ideally positioned in the heart of Sydney’s bustling CBD, Sofitel Sydney Wentworth enjoys proximity to some of the city’s most iconic attractions. Just a short stroll from the Sydney Opera House, Circular Quay, and the high-end shopping precinct of Martin Place, the hotel provides the perfect base for exploring the city’s cultural and business hubs. Arriving guests are greeted by a striking bronze entrance, hinting at the grandeur within. The redesigned lobby is an open, inviting space, with elegant lounge settings and a seamless digital check-in process. However if you prefer ‘old school’ welcome, there is a private reception desk at the back of the lobby.

Rooms & Suites

With 436 beautifully appointed rooms and suites curving gracefully around the hotel’s signature terrace, Sofitel Sydney Wentworth offers a refined yet comfortable retreat. The interiors pay homage to the hotel’s golden era, with soft sculptural forms, rich textures, and a warm, inviting palette. Each room features Sofitel’s signature MyBed™, Balmain Paris amenities, and smart lighting for a tailored guest experience.

We stayed in a beautiful Prestige Suite featuring a separate bedroom and living room, guest powder room and marble bathroom. We loved the access to the Club Lounge that comes with any suite booking. The lounge has very elegant ambiance and is a perfect spot for a complimentary pre-dinner drink.

Dining & Bars

Culinary experiences at Sofitel Sydney Wentworth have been reimagined in partnership with House Made Hospitality, bringing a fresh and dynamic energy to the hotel’s dining venues.

• tilda – A refined yet laid-back restaurant celebrating premium Australian produce, with generous table settings and an elegant atmosphere. One of the most surprising and exceptional dishes is their Butter. Yes, do believe it, it is a separate dish on the menu and the waiter prepares it in front of you. You receive a small mountain of the most delicious butter with hot bread that melts in your mouth.I loved the food here, pretty much everything on the menu is seasonal and delicious!

• bar tilda – A sophisticated lounge serving nostalgia-inspired cocktails, accompanied by live nu-jazz performances. Some of the cocktails are also prepared in front of you – try their Signature Martinis. You could also enjoy light bites to accompany your cocktail experience.

• Delta Rue – A vibrant fusion of Vietnamese and French influences, with a lively atmosphere spilling onto the lush terrace. This restaurant is now my favourite Asian restaurant in Sydney; every dish we tried was sensational, also light, healthy and left us longing for another visit.
• Wentworth Bar – One of Sydney’s most exciting rooftop terraces, featuring bright, easy-drinking cocktails and fresh, vibrant bites. However due to it being mostly open I would recommend it only for good weather days.

Wellness & Fitness

Sofitel Sydney Wentworth plans to elevate guest wellbeing with its forthcoming Health & Wellness Studio, set to open in 2025. For those who prefer an in-room wellness experience, the hotel offers a Wellness Bag, complete with a yoga mat, resistance bands, and mobility rollers, encouraging guests to stay active whether in-room or at nearby landmarks like the Royal Botanic Gardens. While we wait for the Studio to open guests can utilise Virgin gym, less than 2 minutes walk away.

A Hotel of the Arts

Sofitel Sydney Wentworth proudly maintains its reputation as ‘The Hotel of the Arts’, fostering partnerships with cultural institutions such as the Art Gallery of New South Wales and Opera Australia. The hotel’s curated collaborations ensure an immersive cultural experience for guests who appreciate Sydney’s artistic and theatrical landscape.

Final Thoughts

Sofitel Sydney Wentworth’s extensive transformation has successfully reimagined this historic landmark for the modern traveller. With its sophisticated new interiors, world-class dining, and dedication to wellness and the arts, the hotel continues to set the standard for luxury in Sydney’s CBD. Whether visiting for business, leisure, or a special occasion, this iconic property promises an elegant and memorable stay, blending French refinement with Sydney’s vibrant energy.

The Lux Traveller Loves:

• The seamless blend of heritage charm with modern luxury
• The vibrant new dining scene with diverse culinary experiences
• The exclusive Sofitel Club Millésime experience for added indulgence
• The prime location within walking distance to Sydney’s top attractions

Splitting Hairs:

• Valet parking for those driving in is a little pricey $99 per night
• Some of the room features could’ve been updated to a higher standard like doors, taps, bathroom fittings.

Perfect For:

• Luxury travellers seeking a timeless Sydney experience
• Business professionals
• Couples and culture enthusiasts eager to explore Sydney’s artistic and culinary scene

All In All:

Wonderful, modern city hotel with fantastic dining scene and elegant Club Lounge. The staff couldn’t do enough for us, very warm and hospitable service. Looking forward to coming back soon!